Akermanis says stay in closet

Western Bulldogs forward Jason Akermanis has caused a stir this morning by saying gay AFL players should stay in the closet because the AFL is “not ready for it”.

Writing an opinion piece in today’s Herald Sun, Akermanis said football clubs are “very different environments” and admitted he felt “uncomfortable” showering with a gay player when playing amateur football in Queensland.

“I believe the world of AFL footy is not ready for it. To come out is unnecessary for a lot of reasons,” he writes.

“Imagine the publicity associated with a current player admitting he’s gay. It would be international news and could break the fabric of a club.

“I believe it would cause discomfort in that environment should someone declare himself gay.”

Akermanis said “away from football” he supported initiatives to prevent homophobia.

info: To read the full article, visit http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/stay-in-the-closet-jason-akermanis-tells-homosexuals/story-e6frf9ix-1225868871934